Editor, Manteca Bulletin,

George Armstrong Custer’s last stand ended at the Battle of the Little Big Horn. Steve Pinkerton’s last stand ended Thursday, August 25, 2011, at the Manteca City Council meeting. Although he will still be on the payroll until Sept. 1, 2011, the master mind of city politics “Alias” city manager sat upon his “throne” glorified himself, city staff and our good ole “city council” praising everyone on the good job that was done trimming the workforce and slicing the payroll so that they could spend the taxpayers’ money on other projects around town.

“Mastermind Steve” did not mention the fact that he failed in his attempt to “sting” the taxpayers for a utility tax. This was voted down by the “B.A.C.” Budget Advisory Committee, during general meetings held two years ago. I doubt that too many people will miss “Mastermind Steve” other than a few city staff members and the staff at the restaurant at the local golf course, where private lunches are held.

Adios, Steve.

Fred Millner
Manteca
August 29, 2011

Editor’s note: The utility tax was part of a list of options that were placed before the council-appointed budget advisory committee. Pinkerton, and city staff, were neutral in presenting cuts and possible sources of revenue. The lunches referred to were during council mid-year report sessions that were open to the pubic although the sandwich and salad spread for council and staff was paid for with city funds.